An elderly community are celebrating success this morning with news that the threat to a key bus service has been removed.
Residents at Larch Court in Bishopmill joined with neighbours in objecting to Stagecoach withdrawing the service, blaming difficulties in turning their bus at the Larch Court car park.
That would have left residents in the area without their lifeline hourly bus service – including elderly residents at the Larch Court sheltered housing complex.
However, in a last minute U-Turn the bus company has reversed their earlier decision, telling Moray’s MSP Richard Lochhead that changes in the car park at Larch Court would allow the bus to turn safely there.
Stagecoach North Scotland managing director Steve Walker said that the move followed confirmation from Moray Council over the issues.
Mr Lochhead said: “This is a great result protecting an important and, arguably, a lifeline service for the residents of Larch Court.
“Given the mobility issues facing a number of the residents the alternative bus options were simply not workable and I am delighted that with the hard work of residents, lobbying by myself and councillors, hard work by the Community Council and the co-operation of Stagecoach we have a positive outcome to this.
“I particularly commend the residents of Larch Court for organising themselves so effectively and keeping the issue in the spotlight.
“I know also that the SNP councilllor for Elgin City North, Mike Shand, has spoken with those affected and has been vociferous on the issue in the Council.”
Councillor Shand added: “The removal of the bus service from Larch Court was a cause of distress and worry for both residents and their families and while I think this issue could have been avoided in the first place with a great deal more tolerance rather than objection the outcome of a continuing service is the most important issue.
“Residents in Larch Court have fought their corner and I was very pleased to back them up to protect this important service that they value a great deal.
“I am also pleased that Stagecoach were committed to working with the residents to find a solution, which is now pretty much in the bag!”